Istanbul Archives – IHG Travel Blog

Istanbul is the only city in the world to straddle two continents – Europe and Asia – and the Bosphorous river doesn’t just separate the regions, it splits two entirely different cultures. The streets are bustling with imperial splendor. And though the Ottoman mosques, historic…

Turkey is a country rich in history and culture, as well as a popular destination for sun, sea and fun. Here we explore the Turkish delights from ancient mosques and vibrant markets to golden beaches and tantalizing cuisine . . . It’s a lot of…

Modern day Istanbul is a thriving metropolis packed with history, food, and culture. Once home to Byzantine emperors, Ottoman sultans, and the Young Turks, it offers a wealth of palaces, museums, and mosques. People are walking, talking, eating, and throwing their hands around everywhere you look, so…

Turks have always loved their corbasi soups. The élite janissary soldiers of the Ottoman empire even had “soup sergeants” who presided over giant cauldrons in regimental soup kitchens. The modern-day soup kitchens of Istanbul are a lot more casual. At simple corbasi joints, chefs combine…

Istanbul is an ancient city. In its 26 centuries, it has been a Roman city, the capital of Christian Byzantium, and a Muslim stronghold. It's a city of fascinating contrasts, where East and West collide and mingle, and past and present intertwine. If you're visiting…

Istanbul’s Ottoman-era mosques draw millions of visitors every year. From Süleymaniye Mosque’s grandeur to Rüstem Pasha Mosque’s colourful tiles, the mosques are a splendid part of the city and everyone – Muslim or not – is permitted to enter. It’s understandable to feel anxiety about…